Green Bay National Wildlife Refuge

GREEN BAY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 2, 2016

Plum Island Nuisance Deer Control Program

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is partnering with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to implement a Nuisance Deer Control Program on Plum Island, of the Green Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Controlling the deer on Plum Island will have a positive impact on forest regeneration and the rare plant community of this alvar ecosystem. Currently, there is an overabundance of deer, which are impacting sensitive plant communities.

A maximum of 20 deer are able to be harvested to meet the conservation objectives of the nuisance deer program. There is not a limit to the number of tags each group may fill, up to a total of 20 tags. When all the tags have been filled, all subsequent groups will be notified, and the nuisance control program will end for the year.

The seven following six day time periods are when applicants can apply to harvest deer. November 15th-20th November 22nd-27th November 29th- 4th of December December 6th-11th December 13th-18th December 20th-25th December 27th to December 31st A random drawing will be used to designate time periods for groups, up to seven groups.

Group sizes must range from 2-8 participants, and a designated Group Leader must complete the application process. Completed Special Use Permit Applications must be received by mail or e-mail by 4:00 P.M. on Thursday, November 10, 2016. Questions should be directed to Dustan Hoffman at (920)-948-5037. Completed applications should be e-mailed to [email protected], or mailed to Horicon NWR Complex W4279 Headquarters Road Mayville, WI 53050

For more information, or a link to the Special Use Permit Application Form, visit the Green Bay National Wildlife Refuge website. Hover over the “Visit” link near the top of the page, and click on the “Permits” link. https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Green_Bay/

Plum Island is located in Lake Michigan off the tip of Wisconsin's Door County Peninsula, near Washington Island, Wisconsin. Plum Island is a part of the Green Bay National Wildlife Refuge, which is managed by staff at the Horicon National Wildlife Refuge Complex in Mayville, WI.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals, and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.

Contact: Dustan Hoffman, Park Ranger. (920) 948-5037 [email protected]